Police are warning motorcycle and moped owners to be on their guard after a series of thefts in the Oxford area over the past two weeks.

There have been nine separate reports of this type of theft and in the majority of cases, the bikes have been taken from outside the front of homes.

PC Dave Hodsdon said: “A 19-year-old man has already been arrested in relation to the theft of the moped from Titup Hall Drive. He has been bailed to reappear at St Aldates police station on November 6.

“The majority of the vehicles stolen have later been recovered and in most cases they have been damaged.

“We would urge people to take extra precautions when leaving their vehicle. Make sure that you lock it to something secure and if you are going away either find somewhere safe to store it, or ask a friend to keep an eye on it for you.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who has any information in relation to any of these thefts.

“We believe that others are involved in this series and we want to hear from anyone with information as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information can contact PC Hodsdon via the Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505, or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police issued this list of the crimes:

Between 13 and 15 September, a Yamaha TZR125 was stolen from Spencer Crescent

Overnight between 13 and 14 September, a Honda NES125Y was stolen from James Wolfe Road

Overnight between 11 and 12 September, a Honda CG125 was stolen from Aldrich Road

Between 9 and 11 September, a Piaggio ETZ was stolen from Bannister Close

Overnight between 9 and 10 September, an Aragon was stolen from Shotover Mound

Overnight between 9 and 10 September, a Kymco Super 9 was stolen from Clinton Close

Between 3 and 10 September, an Aprilia Mogito was stolen from outside the White Hart pub in Old Marston

Overnight between 8 and 9 September, a Piaggio Zip was stolen from Titup Hall Drive

Between 7 and 9 September, a Kawasaki was stolen from Church Way.